Music and the Aging Brain

Take an in-depth look at the neuroscience behind why and how music effects the aging brain, particularly in dementia, Parkinson’s, stroke and pain management.

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A must for all care partners who are interested in understanding the neurological impact and effects of music in the aging brain. Extensive references are provided. Upon completion of this course, students will have a deeper understanding about:

  • How sound enters the nervous system and is interpreted by the brain
  • The brain-based effects of music in four different situations of aging:
    • Dementia
    • Parkinson’s Disease
    • Stroke
    • Pain
  • Advocating for the intentional use of music in setting that serve older adults with specific neurologic conditions
  • Where to find more information and how to reach out to experts


Your Instructor


Chelsea Mackinnon
Chelsea Mackinnon

Chelsea Mackinnon is a music and health educator and researcher with extensive experience integrating music into the long-term care context. Chelsea developed the Room 217 Music Care Partners program which is an evidence-based process used to solve health and wellness challenges with music. Chelsea holds a master’s degree in music and health sciences, a master’s degree in innovation, entrepreneurship and management in healthcare, and an undergraduate degree in health sciences. She is a sessional instructor at McMaster University where she teaches on the topic of music and health within the faculty of health sciences.


Course Curriculum


  Music and the Aging Brain
Available in days
days after you enroll

Frequently Asked Questions


When does the course start and finish?
The course starts now and never ends! It is a completely self-paced online course - you decide when you start and when you finish.
How long do I have access to the course?
How does lifetime access sound? After enrolling, you have unlimited access to this course for as long as you like - across any and all devices you own.

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